What Foods Should I Avoid During Pregnancy?

The most important thing during pregnancy is to ensure you are eating healthy foods to keep you and your baby healthy. However, there are many foods out there that can pose a risk to your pregnancy and the health of your baby. Because of this it is important for women to be aware of what foods should be avoided during pregnancy. Focusing on eating healthy is important, but it might surprise you what “healthy” foods shouldn’t be consumed during pregnancy.

Seafood

Avoid eating fish that are large because they may have high levels of mercury. The fish that should be avoided according to the FDA include tilefish, swordfish, shark, and king mackerel. Raw fish, shellfish, and sushi should also be avoided. Canned tuna is appropriate for a meal or two per week, but not exceeding this amount.

Meat and Poultry

You may love a rare steak, but it’s dangerous during pregnancy. Make sure all meat and chicken are cooked until juices run clear. The risk of bacterial food poisoning is much higher when you are pregnant due to changes in your body and metabolism. That’s why it’s so important to take care of yourself.

No Hot Dogs or Deli Meat

A dangerous food borne illness called listeriosis may be lurking in hot dogs and deli meats. It’s best to avoid these foods completely during pregnancy although if you choose to eat them do so sparingly and only if they are steaming hot.

Dairy

There are many dairy products that are healthy during pregnancy, but anything that is not pasteurized should be avoided because they could cause a food borne illness. Soft cheeses should also be avoided.

Caffeine

You can drink caffeine during pregnancy, but in limited quantities. Too much caffeine may be associated with low birth rate and miscarriage.

Alcohol

A beer here and there probably won’t hurt your baby, but there is no guarantee it won’t. That’s why it is important to avoid alcohol completely during your pregnancy. There are many risks to the fetus if you drink alcohol, including low birth weight, deformities, heart problems, and brain development.

These are just a few of the foods you will want to avoid during your pregnancy to ensure you stay healthy and that the baby does, too!

Posted in Pregnancy